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Commentary: LGBT history should be taught in schools

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After an intense debate, Gov. Phil Murphy signed a bill into law in New Jersey that mandated education that accurately portrays those of the LGBT community.

The bill ensures that what students are learning in public schools portrays, “the political, economic and social contributions of persons with disabilities and lesbian, gay bisexual and transgender people” in a manner that shines a positive light on those communities.

“We often see in classrooms across the country the bullying of LGBT students, and this is a way they can incorporate into the curriculum that there are gay people that have made vast contributions to this nation,” Trenton, New Jersey Mayor Reed Gusciora told CNN.

“[I] worked with opponents and have addressed their concerns about whether it is appropriate for children to learn about LGBT history and the implications for religious freedom,” Sen. Heather Steans (D) said.

Learning about the people that you share your classroom with can enhance students’ learning experience.

Knowledge begets ignorance, which can combat bullying for those who identify with the LGBT community.

LGBT history tends to get overlooked, because it has been seen as taboo. Considering the recent war on LGBT rights the president of the United States has enacted in recent bills to not allow transgender people into the military, there has been a long history of trans individuals serving in the military that tends to be overlooked.

I personally believe there should be more incorporation of LGBT history in general history courses that make history a common topic to talk and learn about.